Neo Lavender HE vs. Dareu Sky V4
An in-depth look at the Neo Lavender HE and the Dareu Sky V4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the diverse world of mechanical keyboard switches, the Neo Lavender HE and the Dareu Sky V4 represent two compelling options that cater to different typing preferences. The Neo Lavender HE, a hall effect switch, is celebrated for its clean and low sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a quieter typing experience—especially when used with Wooting keyboards, which accentuate its magnetic qualities. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 showcases innovation with its POK material in the top housing, delivering a richer, deeper sound signature that resonates beautifully with typists seeking a smooth linear action. Additionally, the Sky V4 is characterized by its thocky, low-pitched, and bouncy feedback, adding a touch of satisfaction with each keystroke. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize a silent yet responsive feel or a more pronounced auditory experience while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
16mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The Neo Lavender HE and Dareu Sky V4 utilize different materials for their top housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles despite sharing a similar bottom housing construction. The Lavender HE employs a nylon top housing, which is renowned for its softer composition, allowing for a deeper and fuller sound due to its sound-absorbing qualities. The use of nylon enhances the typist's experience by producing a sound that is relatively duller and rounder. In contrast, the Sky V4's top housing utilizes POK material, known for its exceptional smoothness and durability. Its higher friction coefficient, coupled with superior shock resistance, yields a sound that is notably clackier and offers a different tactile experience. While both switches may exhibit satisfying traits during typing, the way they handle sound on key releases diverges due to the differing material compositions.
When it comes to the bottom housings, both the Neo Lavender HE and Dareu Sky V4 feature nylon materials. This similarity allows both switches to produce a comparable auditory experience while bottoming out. Given that nylon is a classic switch housing material, it contributes to the characteristic deep and full sound profile that typists often seek. The consistency across the bottom housings ensures that users will enjoy a solid feel when striking the keys, enhancing the overall typing experience. This inherent quality means that regardless of the differences in the top housings, the switches will maintain a level of familiarity in terms of sound and responsiveness during key presses.
Ultimately, while the top and bottom housings of the Neo Lavender HE and Dareu Sky V4 switch differ in material, the consistency of the nylon in the bottom housing bridges these divides. As such, users can expect similar sound profiles during the bottoming-out phase, irrespective of the contrasting sounds produced by the unique top housing materials. The interplay between the softer nylon and the more robust POK material means that typists will discern the nuances in sound and feel during both pressing and releasing keys, highlighting how each component contributes to the overall auditory and tactile experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, we find distinct differences that cater to varying preferences among users. The Lavender HE features a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who favor a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial during long work sessions or extensive gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sky V4 has slightly heavier specifications with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which offers a more substantial feel that some users prefer for a firmer typing experience. Thus, while both switches allow for smooth operation, the Lavender HE is the lighter option suited for prolonged use, whereas the Sky V4 provides a medium-light tactile response better favored by users who enjoy a stronger push feel when typing. Overall, the differences in their force characteristics highlight the diverse preferences among users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Lavender HE features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Sky V4 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Sky V4 the shorter option, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, which is particularly advantageous for gaming. On the other hand, the Lavender HE, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more gratifying typing experience for those who enjoy a bit of depth in their key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference; if you seek swift actuation, the Sky V4 is the way to go, but if you favor a richer tactile feedback, the Lavender HE would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Sky V4 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V4 for $4.76.
The Neo Lavender HE comes in at $4.50 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch produces a clean, low sound, setting it apart from many traditional magnetic switches. This subtle auditory profile may appeal to users who prefer a quieter typing experience, making it suitable for environments where sound can be a distraction. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V4 switch offers a deeper sound signature characterized as thocky and low-pitched. This results in a rich, satisfying sound that resonates more robustly with each keystroke, creating an engaging auditory feedback that many typists find enjoyable. Both switches generate distinct auditory qualities, with the Lavender HE favoring discretion and the Sky V4 embracing depth.
In terms of feel, the Neo Lavender HE's specific tactile characteristics are not detailed, leaving some uncertainty for newcomers. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V4 is known for its bouncy sensation, providing a spring-like feedback that enhances the typing experience. This liveliness can invigorate a typist's actions, as the key rebounds pleasantly upon release, contributing to an energized feel when typing or gaming. While the Lavender HE's tactile feedback remains a mystery, the Sky V4 undoubtedly champions a lively response.
In summary, while the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch delivers a clean and subtle auditory experience, the Dareu Sky V4 switch is recognized for its richer, thocky sound and bouncy feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities that cater to different preferences; thus, users can choose based on their desired sound environment and typing feedback. For those who value a quieter experience, the Lavender HE is a solid choice, while the Sky V4 suits those looking for richer auditory feedback and a more dynamic feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Neo Lavender HE hall effect switch and the Dareu Sky V4 linear switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a light touch with a clean, quiet sound, and you're looking for a switch that pairs well with Wooting keyboards, the Lavender HE is an excellent option. Its 50-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for rapid typing or gaming, allowing for minimal effort in key presses while maintaining responsiveness. On the other hand, if you appreciate a deeper sound and a more tactile typing experience, the Sky V4 could be your ideal pick. With its slightly heavier 55-gram actuation force, the Sky V4 offers a bouncier feel and a rich sound profile that many typists find satisfying. Its thocky and low-pitched characteristics ensure a more immersive typing experience, making it well-suited for those who enjoy a bit more auditory feedback and tactile feedback with every keystroke. Ultimately, choosing between these switches comes down to whether you prioritize a light, quieter feel or a bouncier, more resonant experience during your typing sessions.
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